Ruth Audrey (Parker) Steeves, 86, of New Minas, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on Saturday, October 2, 2010 in the Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville. Born and raised in the Miramichi, New Brunswick, she was a daughter of the late Merton and Ruby Parker. In her early years she spent much of her free time swimming and skating on the river. After graduation as a teacher, she taught grades primary through eight in a one room school house in the Miramichi area. Ruth led meaningful and dedicated careers in both the fashion industry and the educational system. Following her retirement, her pastimes included playing cards with "the girls", emailing, skyping with family and finding an adventure wherever she could. Ruth gave love and compassion to all around her. Her passion for life was embodied through her dancing and love of music, which she shared with her family and friends. Her presence in any room was contagious, bringing with it joy that could lift the heaviest of hearts. Ruth's selfless dedication to her family and friends made those blessed by her presence better people, their hearts will forever be filled with her bright spirit. Ruth was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sibling and friend. She is survived by her husband, Waldo Steeves; two daughters, Darleen Steeves (Steve Harding), Kentville, and Bobi Boudreau (Chuck), Sambro; two grandchildren, Jamie (Matt Zalot) and Jesse (Amy Webber); two great grandchildren, Roza and Bella; a sister, Jean Estey, Exeter, Ontario; and a sister in law Cora Parker. She was predeceased by a brother, Everett Parker, Moncton, New Brunswick. A memorial gathering will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 6, 2010 in the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville. Burial will take place in the family plot on the Miramichi. Family flowers only, by request. Donations in memory may be made to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation or to a charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all the nurses in the I.C.U. and Maternal and Child Unit for their excellent care of Ruth and especially for the compassion and support they showed the family during this most difficult time. On-line condolences or inquiries may be directed to www.whitefamilyfuneralhome.com.